Basting Thread

Definition and Overview

Basting thread is thread used to temporarily hold pieces of textile together during sewing. It is used to baste areas where pins alone do not hold securely, or where you want to prevent shifting, and is removed after final stitching. Its defining feature is that it is not intended to remain in the finished product.

In addition to hand-basted temporary stitching, it is also used for marking before sewing and for checking the fit of three-dimensional hardware such as collars and sleeves. It is required to avoid damaging the textile and to be removable in a short time.

Material and Twist/Structure

Basting thread is often made from cotton, and it typically has a looser twist than ordinary sewing thread. Looser twist means the fibers are held together with relatively weak twisting. This makes the thread easier to break and easier to remove from the seam.

On the other hand, because the twist is looser, its strength and resistance to fuzzing are more limited than those of machine thread for final stitching. Be careful about thread breakage and snagging on textile in areas that are pulled hard or in temporary holding that is under load for long periods during the process.

How Thickness Is Expressed

The thickness of basting thread may be shown by count or nominal count. Count is a unit that indicates thread thickness, but because the notation differs by material and manufacturer, it cannot be simply compared with other types of thread by number alone.

For cotton thread counts, in general, the larger the count number, the finer the thread. However, basting thread may also be handled by nominal count, so when purchasing, it is important to check the stated material, thickness, and spool size, and to test-sew on the actual textile.

Main Applications and How to Choose

Main applications include temporary holding of hardware, holding seam allowances in place, positioning gathers and tucks, and checking the shape of collars and facings. On slippery textiles, thin textiles, and stretch textiles, adding basting before final stitching makes it easier to control shifting.

A thread that is too thick for the textile can make needle holes and stitch marks noticeable, while a thread that is too thin can break easily during work. Use a finer thread with a fine needle for thin textiles, and choose a thickness that will not break during work for thick textiles or areas with many layers.

• For dark or delicate textiles, check a scrap piece for fuzzing or color transfer from the thread.
• Do not make the stitches too small; secure them at intervals that make removal easy.
• After final stitching, cut the basting thread little by little and remove it without pulling on the textile.

Differences from Similar Terms

Basting thread is a thread specifically for temporary holding, and its intended use and required properties differ from machine thread, which leaves stitches in the product. Machine thread is chosen with sewing strength, abrasion resistance, and sewing performance in mind, while basting thread emphasizes ease of removal.

Hand-sewing thread is used for hand sewing that leaves stitches in place, such as hemming and repairs. If you use basting thread for final stitching or button attachment, it may not provide the required strength. Use different threads for temporary stitching and final stitching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can machine thread be used instead of basting thread?

It can be used for temporary holding, but machine thread is stronger than basting thread and may be harder to remove from the seam. Also, depending on the textile, it may dig in when pulled out, causing damage or stitch marks. Basting thread is suitable for delicate textiles and large-area temporary stitching.

Should basting thread be removed before final stitching?

In many cases, it is removed after final stitching has secured the piece. This is because removing it before final stitching may cause the hardware to shift. However, if the basting thread overlaps the stitching line and could damage the sewing machine needle, remove it as needed while sewing.